UC Merced's dining hall gets greener

University of California at Merced students now can watch their food grow, and eat it too.

Last week, the college unveiled a new, landscaped terrace at the Yablokoff- Wallace Dining Center on campus. The terrace features a culinary herb garden where dining center chefs can pick rosemary, lavender, basil, thyme and mint, among other things.

"We felt the dining terrace and herb garden were a natural complement to the dining center," said Elizabeth Wallace, who funded the terrace and garden through a donation with her husband, Joel. "Many students haven't experienced growing their own food. The garden will allow them to learn about wholesome, organic foods that will be used right in the kitchen."

The dining hall is going green in another way, too. Diners will be served on plastic and metal dinnerware instead of disposable dishes. Recyclable containers are available for students taking their food to go.

The Yablokoff-Wallace Dining Center, a social hub of the campus, also was expanded to include more seating, a larger kitchen, more food options and a private dining room for events.

"It is a lot better this year. Before, it would be so crowded in here, you couldn't find anywhere to sit," said Juan Lopez, a sophomore from Visalia.

Administrators hope the dining hall will be a draw for the campus' students.

"It's the goal of the dining center to have the food be attractive and nutritious so that diners feel right at home," said Jane Lawrence, vice chancellor for student affairs.